Fertile Days: How to Identify Them and When Ovulation Occurs
Identifying your fertile days is essential for women trying to conceive or understand their menstrual cycle better. Ovulation is when the egg is released and can be fertilized, but not all women have regular cycles. Understanding when ovulation occurs and the associated symptoms is crucial.

What Are Fertile Days?
Fertile days are the days when pregnancy is most likely to occur, coinciding with ovulation. The egg is released from the ovary and captured by the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. This process typically happens between days 11 and 15 of a 28-day menstrual cycle.
When Does Ovulation Occur and How Long Does Fertility Last?
The peak fertility period is the day before and the day of ovulation. Although the egg can only be fertilized for 24 hours, sperm can survive in the female reproductive system for up to 5 days, residing in the cervical crypts and waiting for the right moment to fertilize the egg.
When Is Pregnancy Less Likely?
Pregnancy is least likely in the early phase of the cycle, from the first day of menstruation until around day 7. However, after day 10, the chances of conception increase, peaking between days 11 and 15. After day 17, ovulation has already occurred, significantly reducing the likelihood of pregnancy.
How Do Fertile Days Vary Based on the Menstrual Cycle?
Menstrual cycles can range from 21 to 35 days, meaning fertile days vary for each woman. In a 28-day cycle, ovulation occurs around day 14, while in a shorter cycle (21 days), it may happen around day 10. Women with irregular cycles may need additional methods to detect ovulation.
Signs of Ovulation
Several physical and hormonal symptoms can indicate ovulation:
- Increased basal body temperature: After ovulation, body temperature rises by 0.3 to 0.5 degrees due to progesterone production.
- Changes in vaginal discharge: Cervical mucus becomes more elastic and transparent, resembling egg whites, helping sperm reach the fallopian tube.
- Increased breast sensitivity: Hormonal changes can cause breast tenderness.
- Higher libido: Ovulation may lead to an increase in sexual desire.
- Lower abdominal pain or mild cramps: Some women experience discomfort known as “mittelschmerz” or ovulation pain.
- Light vaginal bleeding: A slight pink or brown discharge may occur during ovulation.
Can Pregnancy Occur Without Ovulation?
No, pregnancy only happens when sperm fertilizes an egg. Without ovulation, there is no egg available for fertilization, making conception impossible. After fertilization, the embryo begins to develop, and five days later, implantation occurs in the uterus.
Understanding your cycle and ovulation symptoms is key for women trying to conceive. If you have questions about your fertility, Clínica Fertia offers specialized guidance to help you understand your menstrual cycle and maximize your chances of conception.
